'Breeze' in-flight magazine January 2019 | Cyprus Airways

BREEZE JANUARY 2019

ALTERNATIVE CYPRUS Travelling off the grid

/ CITY TALES /

/ GASTRONOMIC DELIGHTS /

/ ON THE BUCKET LIST /

10 Reasons You’ve Got to Visit Prague

A Creative Spin on Tradition

Beirut: The Heartbeat City

Editor’ s Letter Inspirational New Year, Inspirational New Travels There’s something incredibly special about the start of a new year; a time for resolutions and renewal, change and transformation. First and foremost, on behalf of the entire Cyprus Airways team, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a wonderful 2019, filled with exciting discoveries!

With new beginnings in mind, the editorial team has been lucky enough to spend a few lazy days off the beaten track, recovering from the busy festive period in peaceful solitude at some of the island’s best wellness spas and resorts. Sound like your idea of bliss? If recharging your batteries while taking care of mind, body and spirit is what you’re after, pages 14-20 should get you ticking.

Wellbeing aside, no matter where you find yourselves on the island in the thick of winter and the start of spring, you’ll witness a landscape blanketed in lush greenery, brimming with wildlife and begging to be discovered by the intrepid explorer. Catch a glimpse of the beauty of Cyprus’ winter wonderland (pages 22-23) and discover the magical transformation that spring brings with it (pages 24-29).

It’s not like us, however, to take in the splendours of the natural world without stopping off for some divine culinary indulgence. We’ve dined in restaurants providing a brilliant creative spin on local dishes (pages 30-36), and once the taste buds were satiated, we spent time perusing quaint villages, through cobblestoned alleyways, and into hidden courtyards, all to inspire you to follow our lead. Just turn to page 64 for a taste of Cyprus village life at its best.

Dreaming of a vibrant city break? We’ve scoured Tel Aviv to find places to rock your world (pages 38-43), and walked the streets of Prague to get to grips with its astonishing beauty (pages 44-50). How about exploring a modern metropolis by the sea? We’ve located the best room in Thessaloniki to guarantee blissful nights in boutique style (pages 52-53). And if you’re still itching for more, we give you the lowdown on why wild and wondrous Beirut simply has to be on your holiday bucket list (pages 58-59).

We hope we’ve fired up your wanderlust and look forward to welcoming you back on board a Cyprus Airways flight very soon.

Happy travels!

Zoe Christodoulides, Editor

EDITOR’S LETTER / 3

Contents �: �:

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Editor’s Letter Warm greetings from the editor.

Welcome to Cyprus Airways An overview of who we are and company news.

Ask the Pilot!

Captain Orestis Gavrielides fills us in on his favourite destinations and more.

Published by: Action PR and Publications Ltd, part of Action Global Communications 6 Kondilaki Street, 1090 Nicosia, Cyprus Tel: +357 22 818 884 publishing@actionprgroup.com www.actionprgroup.com

4 / CONTENTS

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Alternative Cyprus – Off the Grid

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Winter Wonderland

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A Spring in your Step

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Savouring Tradition

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Like a Local in Tel Aviv

The best wellness retreats to revive the senses.

A pictorial glimpse of Cyprus’ magical winter, as shared on Instagram.

Exploring Cyprus in full bloom.

A taste of Cypriot food with an alternative twist.

Where to dine, drink, shop and more, like a local in Israel’s vibrant seaside city.

This magazine was published on behalf of: Cyprus Airways 1 Spartis Street, Antoniou Building, 6th Floor 6025 Larnaca, Cyprus Tel: +357 24 020976

Publisher • Chris Christodoulou General Manager • Dimitris Ioannides Chief Editor • Zoe Christodoulides Coordination • Effie Roussou Senior Designer • Gabriela Constantinou

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10 Reasons You’ve Got to Visit Prague

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A Room to Remember…in Thessaloniki

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Shaping Cyprus’ Design Scene

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Beirut: The Heartbeat City

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Visit the Village

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A Marriage Made in Heaven

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Bags of Style

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Cyprus Airways Info

A glimpse of what’s hot, in hip and happening Beirut.

Discovering some of Cyprus’ prettiest rural spots.

Wedding bliss in stunning locations around Cyprus.

The best carry-ons to add a fashionable flair to any holiday.

The lowdown on all our destinations and routes.

A journey through the Czech Republic’s gorgeous bohemian capital.

Get cosy for the night in one of the city’s trendiest rooms.

Meet the innovative ΦΧΨ design team attracting world renown.

Contributors Alexander Davidian • Emily Millett Alix Norman • Eleni Philippou Photographers Antonis Farmakas Photography (pages 30 - 37) Emma Louise Charalambous (pages 54 - 57)

Print Production Laser Graphics Ltd Advertising sales Kiki Haida - kiki.haida@cyprusairways.com © Copyright: Action Global Communications 2019

While every effort is made to ensure that the contents are correct at the time of publication, neither the publisher nor Cyprus Airways accept responsibility for omissions or errors. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the publisher’s permission. Cyprus Airways and its publishers do not accept responsibility for the advertising content or for the return of unsolicited manuscripts or images.

CONTENTS / 5

Welcome to Cyprus Airways Who we are Established in 2016 and based at Larnaca International Airport, Cyprus Airways launched operations in June 2017, holding the trademark of the island’s national carrier. The relaunch of Cyprus Airways marks a significant milestone, both for the local aviation sector, and for the country as a whole.

reaffirms Cyprus’ strong and positive image abroad. Having built and developed all the necessary infrastructure for a safe and reliable airline, long-term goals include promoting the island as a prime holiday and business destination, while increasing inbound tourism.

Having rebranded its visual identity to signify the beginning of a new era, Cyprus Airways has chosen the olive branch – deeply rooted in the identity of Cyprus – as the airline’s symbol, while the iconic moufflon has also been maintained as a core part of the company's identity.

Currently flying to seven destinations (namely Athens, Tel Aviv, Beirut, Thessaloniki, Prague, Heraklion and Zurich), as well as numerous Greek islands, Bratislava and KoŠice in the summer period, the airline is continually broadening the spectrum of destinations, catering to the travel needs of both locals and incoming tourists.

The revival of the national carrier trademark not only expands the island’s connectivity, but also re-establishes and

Cyprus Airways News

Upgrade to new Amadeus Altéa reservation system

Always looking for ways to improve the passenger experience at every step of the journey, Cyprus Airways has upgraded its passenger reservations system to Amadeus Altéa Suite: a next-generation airline IT system enhancing the customer experience by offering a more consistent and personalised customer service to all passengers. The migration to Amadeus Altéa Reservation System also ensures that Cyprus Airways meets passengers’ future needs as the airline continues its expansion.

Global network growth with IATA membership Following a rigorous audit programme that certified Cyprus Airways' compliance with internationally approved aviation safety standards, the airline became a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in October 2018, enabling the company to collaborate with other international member airlines for codeshare and interline agreements, which will provide a seamless travel experience through an extended global network to travellers to and from Cyprus.

Qatar Airways partnership and Blue Air Codeshare Cyprus Airways' passengers can now enjoy more travel opportunities, owing to a recent partnership with Qatar Airways and a codeshare partnership with Romanian carrier, Blue Air. The Qatar Airways partnership gives Cyprus Airways passengers the chance to continue their journey from Larnaca to Doha and beyond, to more than 150 destinations, across six continents, with Qatar Airways flights. Similarly, Qatar Airways’ passengers can now travel from Doha to any Cyprus Airways destination via Larnaca.

Thanks to the Blue Air codeshare agreement, Cyprus Airways’ customers can now fly from Larnaca to London Luton, Athens, Thessaloniki and Bucharest. The agreement allows Cyprus Airways to sell tickets under its own flight code between Larnaca and aforementioned Blue Air operated destinations. Similarly, Blue Air will place its flight code on Cyprus Airways flights to Athens, Thessaloniki, Prague, Tel Aviv and Beirut.

With the possibility of additional routes to be made available in the future, passengers can look forward to more travel options and optimised flight schedules.

Baggage news!

23kg

10 / NEWS

10kg

A new baggage policy will affect customers who select basic fares, effective from 31 March 2019. Under the new improved policy, basic fare ticket holders will be able to check-in their 10kg baggage for a more comfortable journey. All passengers are allowed a small carry-on bag (handbag, laptop or backpack) on board. This new baggage policy will benefit all Cyprus Airways passengers, reducing boarding delays. The flex fare category offers additional services, such as 23kg baggage allowance, seat selection, and more, giving customers the option to customise their travel experience.

Useful information To book your flight, find out more about Cyprus Airways destinations, or join our newsletter for the company’s latest news and offers visit: cyprusairways.com For any information or support, the Cyprus Airways Call Centre is open between 7.30am and 10.30pm, seven days a week, with a toll-free number for Cyprus: 8000 8111 When calling from abroad tel: +357 24 000053 cyprusairways

cyprusairways

Ask the pilot!

A childhood dream has become reality for Captain Orestis Gavrielides, who once watched his father excitedly dabble with radio-controlled model airplanes, inspiring a decision that, one day, he would sit in a cockpit, flying a real aircraft.

des

i Orestis Gavriel

Q: Favourite Cyprus Airways destination to spend a weekend?

A: It has to be Prague because of its beautiful architecture.

It’s great for families and couples, and it’s perfect for short breaks throughout the year.

Never abandoning his dream, he began flying while still in high school, first reaching for lofty heights in a commercial aircraft in 2002, following his studies in the UK. Captain Orestis has been soaring through the clouds with Cyprus Airways since its establishment in 2016, embarking on the airline's first commercial flight in June 2017, from the sunny seaside town of Larnaca, to the dazzling historic city of St Petersburg. Here, he lets us in on his favourite destinations and more!

Prague

Q: Most enjoyable airport to fly into?

A: Zurich! The scenery is simply stunning over the Alps.

Q: Most memorable flight?

A: My first flight as captain to Trondheim in Norway.

Q: Most exciting thing about life as a captain?

A: Being able to travel the world and see the earth from above.

Q: One country in the world on your 'must-visit' list that you haven't been to yet?

A: Tanzania to visit Mount Kilimanjaro.

Tanzania 12 / SKY HIGH - ASK THE PILOT

Norway

TEXT BY ZOE CHRISTODOULIDES

Alternative Cyprus

14 / HEALING HOLIDAYS

Off the Grid

Whether you yearn to recharge those batteries on a serene solo escape, or love the idea of whisking your other half away on a carefree holiday where time stands still, finding your inner Zen has never been easier!

Basking in the Mediterranean sunshine away from the daily routine is bound to rejuvenate the senses, but dip your toes into the comforting world of ‘wellness’ and you’ll be on your way to seventh heaven. Hit the pause button on normal life, free your mind of stress, and fill your body with energy as you reconnect with nature and embrace the very essence of slow living.

ALTERNATIVE CYPRUS - OFF THE GRID / 15

Aelia Wellness Retreat, Tseri Heaven on earth has never been so accessible! Located just outside Cyprus’ buzzing capital of Nicosia, this wellness haven and eco-resort was created to transport mind, body and spirit into a world of pure bliss and serenity.

With its ‘Return to Happiness’ philosophy, Aelia Wellness Retreat has been designed to transform your mindset from the moment you step into the meticulously designed space, with natural woodwork throughout the airy and well-lit interior seamlessly blending with the surrounding barren landscape that sets the scene for carefree days and nights.

Serious about holistic living, the tranquil retreat promises to heal, de-stress and invigorate. Take a seat at the in-house restaurant for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, combining traditional cooking techniques with a modern twist to create light, gourmet and delectably healthy local dishes. Walk into the Cocoon Spa and surrender to a soul soothing haven, with wellness-orientated treatments and rituals aimed at restoring and revitalising. Try the signature 'ultimate aromatherapy' treatment to soothe tired muscles, and ease away aches and pains.

Care to stretch those limbs? Reset and recharge with yoga, meditation, bike rides, horse riding and Nordic walking. Want to turn over a new leaf? A number of tailored programmes give guests the chance to conquer stress, facilitate weight loss, and detoxify body and mind.

And when you call it a day, the accommodation options at Aelia will transport you into your own quiet and sumptuously indulgent world, complete with detailed woodwork and natural elegance.

Step out onto your private patio and take in the aromas of local herbs, as green and airy surrounds calm the senses.

Aelia Wellness Retreat, 150 Grigoriou Afxentiou, Tseri, Nicosia.

Tel: +357 22 015590 www.aeliawellness.com.cy

16 / HEALING HOLIDAYS

The Olive Tree Sanctuary, Nikokleia Few places are more quiet and serene than the west of Cyprus, and when you head deep into the area’s wilderness, you could be forgiven for forgetting all about the manic hubbub of daily life. Little wonder then, that The Olive Sanctuary team chose to set up base on this side of the island, in the quaint village of Nikokleia, about 17km southwest of Paphos town, where guests can put their feet up for the night at the charming sanctuary accomodation, the stonebuilt Vasilias Nikoklis Inn. If you’re keen on detoxing body and mind, the retreat focuses on seasonal, fresh, healthy and creative Cypriot vegan cuisine with an international twist – three meals a day to be precise – and yoga practice to lift the spirits, with well-known international instructors jetting in to host a variety of retreats alongside local yoga teachers (the retreats often last for six days and the schedule is posted on their website listed below).

While you heal and relax in beautiful gardens complete with a swimming pool, you can also indulge in several holistic therapies, forgetting about the stress and pressure of daily life. The Olive Tree Sanctuary also offers one complimentary Reiki session, as well as an Aroma Touch hands technique.

Want to enjoy sunset yoga by the sea? Enjoy a visit to the mythical Aphrodite’s Rock as the sun goes down over the Med. As you’re left with a glow and energy to take on the world by the end of the day, curl up for the night in rooms with a real traditional Cypriot flair, many of which boast balconies with stunning views across the surrounding countryside.

The Olive Tree Sanctuary, Nikokleia village, Paphos. www.theolivetreesanctuary.com

ALTERNATIVE CYPRUS - OFF THE GRID / 17

Casale Panayiotis, Kalopanayiotis A few days in the lovely Casale Panayiotis traditional mountain spa hotel are enough to leave anyone feeling as though they are ready to conquer the world. Set deep in Troodos’ forested Marathassa Valley, this luxury spa retreat – albeit with a real community feel – wasn’t just built in this quaint village by chance. Once frequented by kings of the area who would bathe in the natural sulphur spring water tricking from nearby springs, the area is renowned as one of Cyprus’ oldest spa villages.

And the Myrianthousa Spa certainly doesn’t disappoint. Follow the recommended spa sequence (which includes saunas, herbal steam rooms, snow cabins and tropical rain showers) and relax in the hydrotherapy pool, before indulging in a Mediterranean inspired body treatment like the ‘Rocks of Troodos’ thermal stone massage or the ‘Goat Milk & Rose Ceremony’ classic hydrobath.

Visitors looking to embrace a real hands-on approach to wellbeing while connecting with the surrounding nature, can enjoy all sorts of activities in the great outdoors, from mountain biking to walking the many Troodos nature trails. But it doesn’t end there. Put a real alternative spin on your wellness holiday and head down to a local orchard to pick fruit from the trees, or learn about the art of beekeeping. When your feet tire, kick back in style to tuck into the local cuisine at one of the hotel's restaurants, where fresh produce is taken seriously.

Guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in village life every step of the way, with the whole retreat spread out amid village shops and restaurants. Adding to this immersion, the guest rooms and suites were once village homes, lovingly restored to retain their original character and charm. Ask for a balcony with views across the towering mountain peaks, and you’ll be hesitant to depart on the day you’re homeward bound.

Casale Panayiotis, Kalopanayiotis village, Troodos.

Tel: +357 22 952444 www.casalepanayiotis.com

18 / HEALING HOLIDAYS

Ayii Anargyri Natural Healing Spa Resort, Miliou Another west coast gem, this natural spa resort cocooned by the lush Paphos forest, is geared towards ‘making dreams come true’. And people flock to this haven of serenity from far and wide to relax and rejuvenate in the health-giving, mineral-rich waters which flow in the area.

Ayii Anargyri Natural Healing Spa Resort uses natural spring water, which is channelled into three treatment pools: kinesiotherapy, rheumatology and phlebology. Various medical treatments are complemented by a wide range of wellness therapies to suit every desire, whether you wish to relax those muscles with a deep massage, fancy a sulphur mud bath therapy or want a good old facial to make you glow. Yoga is also available, with special packages for private sessions, or sessions for two.

As for the accommodation itself, you can choose from garden suites, bungalows or classic rooms, with a lovely central swimming pool where you can soak up the sun and relax. The hotel restaurant gives you the chance to tuck into traditional Cypriot fare, with dishes that are garden fresh, nutritious and flavoursome. And when you get itchy feet? The surrounding nature is begging to explored, with the island’s stunning Akamas peninsula just a short drive away.

Ayii Anargyri Natural Healing Spa Resort, Miliou village, Paphos.

Tel: +357 26 814003 www.aasparesort.com

20 / HEALING HOLIDAYS

Winter Wonderland

Once the thick of winter sets in, Cyprus takes on a whole new persona, as powdery white snow blankets the island’s highest peaks, while the foothills of the towering Troodos mountains reach down to touch inland plains covered in lush greenery. What was once dry land in the sweltering summer months becomes a rich and verdant playground in the winter, as trekkers and avid photographers explore the enchanting wilderness.

That’s not to underestimate the magical winter appeal of the country’s famous coastline, as colder sea waters vivaciously caress deserted, but often sun-kissed, windswept shores. We take you on an enchanting journey around some of the island’s most beautiful wintry spots, shared on Instagram by both travellers and local explorers.

@anastasiacyprus_ / Troodos Mountains

@charis_solomou / Troodos Mountains

@lichttraegerin / Paphos coast

@chlouk / Prodromos dam

@mikek_20 / Kakopetria village

22 / PICTURE-PERFECT

@nickbunick / Arminou dam - Paphos

@dharmalivi / Aphrodite's Rock

@christosgeorgiou / Limassol pier

@alena_ax / Cape Greco

@Iongimarus / Troodos Mountains

@Wandertroodos / Pedoulas village

WINTER WONDERLAND / 23

T E X T BY E M I LY M I L L E T T

A Spring in your Step Erupting in a multicoloured carpet of flowers each spring, the Cyprus countryside beckons seductively, enticing the intrepid traveller to breathe in its fresh air, feel the gentle warmth of its sun and indulge in the healing powers of its great outdoors.

24 / IN FULL BLOOM

A SPRING IN YOUR STEP / 25

There is something undeniably magical about Cyprus in the springtime. Not yet inundated by the summer crowds, the island exudes a uniquely peaceful feeling of stillness and quiet, while simultaneously awakening, stretching and blossoming after the colder winter months. And nowhere is this enchanting revival more evident than out in nature; in the lush, green countryside, where, for these precious few months of the year, the land flourishes with abundant plants, flowers and animals. Make the most of the season and head outside to explore the wealth of trails, hikes, parks, mountains, villages, forests and valleys that Cyprus has to offer.

26 / IN FULL BLOOM

Best foot forward Unbeknownst to sun, sea and sand seeking tourists, Cyprus has a wealth of off-the-beaten-track adventures to embark upon either on foot, or on two wheels. For a taste of Cyprus at its most wild and undeveloped, walk the Akamas Peninsula on the west of the island, where routes such as the 'Adonis' or 'Aphrodite' trails provide opportunities to catch a glimpse of rare red tulips or wild orchids, and enjoy unmatched views down to the coast.

Easily one of the most unique and impressive trails in the Troodos district is the circuitous ‘Teisia tis Madaris’ walk, which takes in spectacular views and remarkable geological phenomena. Shaped like giant cliff faces, these rocks were formed through the movement of tectonic plates and millions of years worth of erosion. Circling the top of Mount Olympus, ‘Artemis’ trail is another easy hike through a majestic black pine forest. Look out for rare species of flora, 500-year-old trees, fascinating rock formations and incredible views in all directions.

In need of a seaside escape? The ‘Aphrodite’ trail within the Cape Greco National Park is an alluringly peaceful oasis, away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Ayia Napa, where walkers can encounter indigenous juniper, wild thyme, and an abundance of the iconic yellow flowers which have become synonymous with Cyprus spring.

A SPRING IN YOUR STEP / 27

It’s a twitcher’s life

Dining al fresco

Cyprus’ location on the cusp of three continents, makes it an important migratory pitstop for a plethora of bird species travelling across the globe to breeding grounds and wintering destinations in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. This makes the island a real treasure trove for twitchers looking to cross new species off their tick list. And the spring and autumn periods in Cyprus are easily the richest and most diverse in terms of bird life.

Spring in Cyprus is the perfect time to get outdoors and spend full days roaming the verdant, blossoming countryside while the weather is still fresh. So pack up some delicious goodies and head out to some of the island’s gorgeous picnic areas to enjoy a spot of dining under the clear blue Mediterranean sky. For a remote picnic adventure with a wilderness twist, drive deep into the Paphos Forest to 'Stavros tis Psokas Picnic Site', with its back-drop of scented pine trees, convenient wooden tables, benches, fire-pits and nearby hiking trails.

The spring migration season starts in early February and runs all the way through into May, with keen watchers likely to see Hirundines, Isabelline and Northern Wheatears, Great Spotted Cuckoo, Hoopoe, Pallid Harriers, Wryneck, Larks, Pipits, Wagtails, Black-eared Wheatear, Sylvia Warblers (including Ruppell’s and Subalpine), Cretzshmar's and Ortolan Buntings, Egrets, Herons, Waders, Rollers, Bee-eaters, Olivaceous Warblers, Shrikes, Golden Orioles and Black-headed Bunting. Bird watching hot-spots for the spring season include the stunning Akamas Peninsula, the Paphos headland, Asprokremmos Dam, the Paphos Plain and Paphos Forest, Evretou Dam, Diarizos Valley, the Akrotiri Marshes and Salt Lake, the Larnaca Salt Lake, Oroklini Marsh, Cape Greco, Paralimni Lake, Akhna Dam and the Troodos Mountains.

28 / IN FULL BLOOM

Combining your picnic with a scenic stroll is also an option at ‘Xyliatos Picnic Site’, which, as well as being an idyllic spot – with covered barbeque areas and seating arrangements – is also the beginning of a dramatic 4.5km nature trail around the adjacent Xyliatos dam. Take in awe-inspiring sea views at coastal spots such as ‘Ayii Anargyri Picnic Site’ in Cape Greco National Forest Park, and for visitors travelling to Cyprus around March 11 this year, get a taste of the local tradition by packing a healthy meat-free picnic into the car and driving out to eat al fresco with family and friends on Green Monday, marking the first day of Greek Orthodox Lent.

Park rambles

Time to party

No season regales the Cyprus countryside with as much bountiful flower and plant life as spring. So get out and soak up these green and blossoming months at the island’s beautiful parks and gardens, before the burning summer sun turns the land a ubiquitous toasty yellow.

Spring is a season of celebration in Cyprus, as the island welcomes the arrival of warmer weather and the multitude of local, rural and cultural festivities that it brings with it. The festival season really kicks-off with the eagerly awaited Limassol Carnival, celebrating all things hedonistic.

Considered one of the most impressive carnivals in the world, Limassol Carnival is a two-week long street-party, culminating on March 10 this year with a vibrant parade through the city. Don’t forget to dress up!

The Troodos Botanical Garden is a veritable museum of endemic plants and herbs, with spectacular views out over the mountains, and where education and conservation go hand-in-hand thanks to the efforts of the forestry department.

Visitors can also learn about the island’s biodiversity at Eleouthkia Park (eleouthkia.com.cy) in Paphos – a sprawling 20,000m² oasis, where over 55,000 plant and flower species grow across 10 themed gardens. For a fragrant adventure of herbal discovery, head to CyHerbia Botanical Park and Labyrinth (cyherbia.com) in Avgorou village, with its nine organic herb gardens, unique hedge maze and lavender meditation labyrinth.

Fancy a spot of urban park life? Visit Nicosia’s Athalassa Park – a green escape from the concrete jungle of the city. And for a park experience where fauna takes precedence over flora, head to the Camel Park (www. camel-park.com) on the south coast in the Larnaca district of Mazotos – a fun day out for the whole family.

February is also the time of the annual Blossoming Almond Trees Festival, which sees the quaint little village of Limnatis near Limassol, covered in a blanket of soft, delicately fragrant pink almond blossom. Nowhere in Cyprus do so many almond trees grow in one place and in celebration of their local crop, the Community Council organises traditional music, dancing, and a plethora of local almond-based delicacies to try. Exact dates have yet to be confirmed, but visitors can call the council for information on +357 25 432922.

Visitors arriving in May can enjoy the Agros Rose Festival in the Troodos region of Pitsilia and the Anthestiria Flower Festival in Paphos.

A SPRING IN YOUR STEP / 29

TEXT BY ZOE CHRISTODOULIDES

A Creative Spin ON TRADITION

In a country where dining out is a serious affair, and food is the hottest subject of discussion any day, any time, finding a good spot to indulge your inner gastronome is as easy as pie. But if you’re looking to be teased and tantalised with a smorgasbord of innovative tastes, it’s the hidden gems offering a contemporary twist on Cyprus’ tradition that shine bright.

Indulging diners with an alternative take on some of the island’s most popular dishes, these hidden joints and flavour powerhouses are where tradition meets innovation, satiating the palate of the curious food lover and surprising even the most well-travelled foodie. Join us on an appetising journey to discover some of the best.

30 / GASTRONOMIC DELIGHTS

A CREATIVE SPIN ON TRADITION / 31

Peiragmena, Lympia From the outside, Peiragmena looks much like any other pretty village restaurant in Cyprus; a renovated old stone building blending into the unassuming village of Lympia. But anyone who has placed knife and fork together within these four walls will be well aware that the gastronomic delights that land on the dinner table have a rather different tale to tell, one where divine experimentation and superb modern adaptations take centre stage.

Located a short drive from both Larnaca and Nicosia, the name ‘Peiragmena’ (pronounced pee-rag-men-a) means ‘tweaked’, and the owners are adamant about dishing up Cyprus and Mediterranean inspired treats to surprise your taste buds in the most alternative fashion. What's more, the menu changes each season, with emphasis placed on fresh high-quality produce, mostly locally sourced.

The two creative minds running the show, Yiannis Katchis and Vasilis Koutouroushis, explain that Peiragmena is all about offering something out of the ordinary, “hence our ‘dare to taste the difference’ slogan,” explains Yiannis. And they are resolute about their restaurant not being called a ‘tavern’. “We never wanted to serve anything traditional!” the restauranteur exclaims as he guides us around the cozy space, built in the 1800s and once housing a dairy farm, luring people from near and far who would pop by to collect local halloumi.

A few of their biggest hits making a regular appearance on the changing seasonal menu include the chicken and duck liver pâté with wild berry compote, served with long-fermented ciabatta bread, the fried duck ravioli and the citrus marinated chicken.

While their 2019 winter and spring menu was yet to be finalised at the time of print, last winter’s favourites included slow roasted pumpkin soup with spiced bitter chocolate, beetroot and chickpea croquettes, rabbit meat loaf with bitter orange sauce, and stewed beef with Commandaria sauce, made with Cyprus’ famous dessert wine. There are always veggie alternatives on offer, while each season features a different dessert to please the sweet tooth, inspired by the time of year.

32 / GASTRONOMIC DELIGHTS

Patrikon Creative Tavern, Tersefanou When three young siblings in the relatively unknown village of Tersefanou set about converting the garden of their family home into a restaurant a few years back, no one could have possibly imagined that, one day, the tiny establishment in the quiet undulating countryside outside Larmaca would become one of the most talked about and revered restaurants on the island. What’s their secret? Not just about a passion for good food, Kiriakos, Evanthia and Stavros Fokou also possess steadfast resolve to shake up the norm and turn Cypriot tradition on its head.

Take a look around Patrikon (literally translating to family home) and you’ll immediately witness all things traditional and quirky fusing in perfect unison.

Tables are dressed in the so-called ‘karpasitika’ traditional Cyprus cloth, intricate family lace decorates sideboards, and restored old village mosaic tiles adorn the walls. And it’s not just the décor that brings rare local finds into focus.

“The ingredients we like to use at Patrikon are often scarce and forgotten, like wild greens and unusual herbs. Old traditional recipes are brought to life with our own vision,” Kiriakos lets on. “We wanted to preserve Cypriot cuisine, promote it, and give it our own touch.”

The menu changes every season, and each time you visit, you’ll have the chance to indulge in about 15 set dishes made with local seasonal produce. Some of the most popular dishes include trahana (fermented mixture of grain and yoghurt) balls with tomato marmalade, calamari with caramelised ‘pastourma’ (spicy village sausage) on a ‘louvana’ (yellow split pea) base, and slow-cooked lamb with carob sauce, juniper berries and red wine vinegar.

“Patrikon and the focus on tweaked ‘Cyprus cuisine’ and exploration of local produce came about from a love for our country, the authenticity you find in local recipes and the freshness of the ingredients,” emphasises Kiriakos. “We really believe in the evolvement of Cyprus cuisine and wish to play with it, redefining what it's all about.”

Hardly surprising that some of their dishes bring back childhood memories for the talented trio, especially the rusks served with herring cream, cucumber jelly with mint, caramelised quail egg and pickled celery. Other dishes totally reinvent well-known Cypriot tastes, exemplified by the olive paste with coriander seeds, tomatoes, cucumber and wild roots. You’ll no doubt want to have your camera or phones at hand, as each dish is about as Instagram-worthy as it gets!

A CREATIVE SPIN ON TRADITION / 33

Dionysus Mansion, Limassol

An old stone house of rather a different kind, Dionysos is a handsome city mansion, a grand old home renovated to trendy perfection in the centre of the seaside town of Limassol. A place where ‘fun and gourmet’ fuse in fabulous unison, Dionysos Mansion is known for blending Cypriot and Greek cuisines, offering fine gastronomy in ambient style, where swings replace chairs and funky drop down pendant lighting sets the scene for the most delectable dining experience.

The brainchild of the two owners, Yiannis Antoniades (also well-known owner of Guaba Beach Bar) and George Zacharoglou, the restaurant was born out of a shared passion for food and ambiance. “We always love to try local cuisines whenever we travel. So we created a restaurant (not a tavern) serving mainly Cypriot and Greek cuisines with a modern twist,” says George. “We try to use local ingredients whenever possible, supporting the local market and the local community.”

While the menu changes every six months according to the season, a few of the most popular signature dishes which regularly feature on the menu include the stuffed ravioli with “Grevena” region porcini mushrooms, graviera cheese sauce and truffle oil, as well as the ‘Lachanodolas’ made risotto with beef mince ragout and velouté cream of white cabbage.

That’s not to forget the always-popular Neoklis farm grilled halloumi cheese with green asparagus and fresh mint leaves. “The halloumi is homemade just for us in Pissouri village, and it’s one of the best you'll try!”

Neoklis farm, owned by Yiannis and his father, also provides the meat for Dionysus Mansion's famed slow-cooked Pissouri farm lamb leg dish, marinated with orange and rosemary, and served with 'Kolokasi' (taro) purée from Sotira village. The grilled lamb chops, served with rice cream, flavoured with saffron, cous cous, tabbouleh and yogurt, are also a big hit, as are the farm snails, cooked with virgin olive oil with rosemary and red wine vinegar.

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Katoi, Omodos

Not just one of the most beautiful villages on the island, Omodos is every inch a food lover’s haven, as locals congregate in and around the main square to sell their prize produce. Tucked away on a cobbled street just behind the village hub, is a restaurant whisking diners back in time, within a charming 450-year-old building.

“Just as our space offers tradition with a modern flair, so does our food.

It’s all about age-old recipes with a contemporary twist here,” enthuses Katoi Restaurant Manager and Executive Chef, Panayiotis Panayiotou, as he dashes about the shop, cutting herbs from his ‘Chef’s Garden’. “We are crazy about fresh herbs – thyme, oregano, rosemary, you name it, we use them!”

Step into this atmospheric renovated medieval Cypriot mountain house – complete with hanging chandeliers, pointed arches and wood beam ceilings – and make yourselves comfy by the roaring fire before delighting in an onslaught of flavoursome Cypriot dishes. Start off with a selection of local dips accompanied by olive oil and oregano pita and the sweet ‘arkatena’ bread, made exclusively in the area with rosewater and chickpea flour.

For a real twist on tradition, happy diners should tuck into the beetroot and green apple salad with carrots, raisins, walnuts and fresh mint dressing. The rocket and kefalotyri salad is another popular choice, a mix of pastelaki (nut brittle), pomegranate, sun dried tomatoes and figs. The yellow lentil soup goes down a treat on chilly days, while the moussaka with crispy salad is comfort food at its best.

Meat lovers will relish the pork belly glazed with chili and sweet Commandaria wine, as well as their fire-grilled pork chop smoked with grape syrup sauce. For a sumptuous vegetarian dish, go for their ‘kritharoto’; risotto made with the traditional Cypriot ‘kritharaki’ (orzo), mushrooms and truffle sauce, while fish lovers can devour the grilled octopus with ‘tarama’ (made from fish roe) and sauce vierge. “I’m a firm believer in fresh ingredients,” concludes Panayiotis. “And if the ingredients are exquisite, you will have exquisite results. Simple as that!”

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/ Peiragmena 15 Theodorou Mavrosavva Street, Lympia Tel: +357 22 524333 / Patrikon Creative Tavern 22 Dionysios Solomou Avenue, Tersefanou Tel: +357 24 424831 / Dionysus Mansion 5, 16th June Street, Limassol Tel: +357 25 222210 / Katoi 25 Linou Street, Omodos Tel: +357 25 423033

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A CREATIVE SPIN ON TRADITION / 37

T E X T BY E M I LY M I L L E T T

TEL AVIV

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Tel Aviv is easily one of the coolest cities in the Middle East.

Seamlessly merging its deep-rooted cultural heritage, with an undeniably modern international flair which permeates every corner, street, alley and boulevard, this hive of innovation and creativity pulsates with an intoxicating energy that is hard not to fall in love with.

Visitors to the ‘White City’ will find a cosmopolitan meltingpot of diversity, bursting at the seams with awe-inspiring architecture, hip bars and cool cafés, experimental eateries, thought-provoking street art, quirky boutiques, and fascinating museums and historical sites, all just waiting to be discovered.

Sightseeing splendours To get a really immersive feel of the unique history and rich culture of Tel Aviv, start on the Independence Trail (www.independencetrail. co.il) – an initiative launched in May 2018, which guides visitors around the city’s most important historical locations, telling the story of Israel’s independence along the way. Next, take in the fascinating sights and sounds at one of the city’s many markets, such as the Nahalat Binyamin Crafts Fair (www.nachlat-binyamin.com), where over 200 artists display their work every Tuesday and Friday. Once you’ve had your fill of arts and crafts, absorb the beautiful and well-preserved architecture of the Nahalat Binyamin area, as you stroll to nearby Carmel Market (principally located down Carmel Street), for an authentic taste of the hustle and bustle of local life.

Architecture buffs can get their fill of emblematic Bauhaus buildings in the central Lev Hair district, with many of its structures having earned UNESCO World Heritage status. The Neve Tzedek neighbourhood is also a great place for architectural marvelling, boasting uniquely magnificent buildings such as The Suzanne Dellal Centre for Dance and Theatre (www.suzannedellal.org.il), with its stunning piazza and lush gardens.

A huge part of Tel Aviv city life is the long 14km stretch of beach, which runs the length of the city and provides an urban getaway for locals and visitors alike. On the northern end of the shoreline is Metzitzim Beach, where beautiful people recline on sun-loungers and sip cocktails, while the southern end offers a much more laid-back atmosphere at Alma Beach. Watching the sun set over the Mediterranean is a must.

/ The Suzanne Dellal Centre for Dance and Theatre

Metzitzim Beach / 40 / LIKE A LOCAL

Art gazing Tel Aviv is a living, breathing art gallery, and visitors won’t need to look far to find creative depictions of the city’s artistic spirit. Head down to the hip Florentin district or Nahalat Binyamin, where side streets and alleyways are adorned with mind-blowing graffiti that adds a touch of colourful, underground magic to the public spaces.

The best street art in the area can be explored and discovered on dedicated graffiti tours by Be Tel Aviv Tours (www.betelavivtours.com), giving visitors an in-depth insight into why the city is currently being heralded as the rising star of the international street art scene. For a more conventional art experience, don’t miss the Tel Aviv Museum of Art (www.tamuseum.org.il), the largest museum of its kind in Israel, and home to an impressive collection of work by some of the world’s greats including Cezanne, Chagall, Dali, Monet, Rodin, Picasso, Klimt and Kadinsky. The building’s architecture is a work of art in its own right, so if you don’t make it inside, pass by the exterior to marvel at the progressive Bauhaus design.

/ Tel Aviv Museum of Art © Amit Geron

Contemporary art lovers can enjoy plenty of options in a city that is having its moment in the art world spotlight. The hottest space in town is currently Sommer Contemporary Art Gallery (www.sommergallery. com) on Rothschild; but don’t let the historic building fool you, inside those walls lies some of the very best of contemporary Israeli work from home and abroad.

Always progressive and avant-garde, Tel Aviv also has a couple of unusual galleries that, from the outside, might look more like restaurants or bars, but scratch beneath the surface, and you’ll find they also act as platforms for some of the brightest emerging talents. Beit Kandinof (14 Hatzorfim) in Old Jaffa is as artsy as they come, with fabulous cocktails and tasty bites, served alongside rotating exhibitions, private art studios and art classes all under one roof. Another hybrid gallery/bar gem tucked away in the midst of all the hustle and bustle of Old Jaffa is Cuckoo's Nest (3 No'am Street) – an antique shop by day, which transforms into a quirky little bar with weekly art exhibitions by night.

Florentin /

© Guy Yechiely

Delectable drinking Start your day with a steaming cup of joe at one of the local favourites such as Cafe Puaa (www.rol.co.il/sites/eng/puaa) in Jaffa Flea Market, or Cafelix (cafelix.co.il) – an artisan small batch roaster, where local caffeine addicts get their daily fix of handcrafted, sustainable coffee. Moving from wake-up-call brews, to wind-down drinks of the stiffer variety, Tel Aviv’s bar scene is second to none, with a huge selection of cool and quirky haunts for when the sun sets and the night owls come out to play.

The Prince (18 Nahalat Binyamin) is a hip, arty rooftop joint, with mismatched furniture and book-lined walls adding to the retro, vintage atmosphere. And for a slick and sexy cocktail experience, make Bellboy Bar (www.bellboybar.com) your first port of call, where beautiful drinks are lovingly concocted by expert mixologists. See if you can find Butler, the secret ‘sister’ bar, hidden away behind Bellboy. Widely regarded as one of the coolest spots in the city, the now-iconic Port Said (5 Har Sinai) is a vibrant, busy and often somewhat chaotic bar located opposite the city’s largest synagogue.

/ Port Said

Another effortlessly cool hot spot, popular amongst the hipster crowd, is Beit Romano (9 Jaffa Road) in the heart of Florentin. This multi-floor building with an open courtyard, houses the headquarters of eclectic local Teder radio station, a funky restaurant and a bar, with a sound system to kill. Finally, soak in the magic of Tel Aviv from the lofty heights of Suramare (www.suramare.co.il). Located on the 10th floor of an otherwise mundane office block, this is a great spot to enjoy the sunset.

Bellboy Bar /

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Divine dining Tel Aviv is a foodie haven of epicurean delights, tantalising even the most discerning of taste buds. Vegetarians and vegans have a huge variety of options, but for those looking for a really friendly neighbourhood vibe, head to Bucke (www.bucke-cafe.com) on Ahad Ha'Am Street. Popular amongst the hipster crowd, Bucke offers delicious healthy, veggie dishes with local flare. Try the Shakshoukas eggs – lauded as the best in town by locals in the know.

Fancy fresh seafood right on the beachfront, with views out over the Med? Head to Manta Ray (mantaray.co.il), where Middle Eastern cuisine is given a creative twist. Or for a more romantic and atmospheric seafood experience, try Oasis (oasistlv.co.il), a seasonal restaurant with an ever-changing and highly experimental menu. Run by one of Tel Aviv’s most famous chefs, Eyal Shani, North Abraxas (40 Lilienblum) is a lively representation of the city’s uniquely vivacious vibe. Effortlessly stylish, yet at the same time simple and fun, this upscale eatery serves up a creative menu of down-to-earth dishes in a beautiful setting. Try the fish in tomato sauce or coal roasted beetroot. Diners are spoilt for choice at Ramesses (ramessesjaffa.com), which stretches the length of Jaffa's Greek Market with a row of connected restaurants, each offering up diverse menus, united by colourful graffiti murals.

/ Manta Ray © Avi Ganor

Bucke /

Heavenly sleeps Tel Aviv’s diverse neighbourhoods and bustling streets will have you exploring until you can’t walk another step. And when that happens, the city’s wealth of unique accommodation options deliver essential creature comforts with a healthy dash of contemporary creativity. For a taste of the cosmopolitan culture that characterises the city, bed down at Fabric Hotel (m.atlas.co.il/fabric-hoteltel-aviv) on vibrant Nahalat Benyamin Street, where a trendy industrial vibe is offset by colourful murals, and a hip all-day artisanal café-cum-cocktail bar serves guests and locals on the ground floor. For the high-end traveller, Drisco Hotel (www.thedrisco.com) on Auerbach Street exudes a heady mix of iconic history and contemporary luxury, without relinquishing its original Ottoman

grandeur, while The Vera Hotel (theverahotel.com) on Lilienblum Street epitomises everything that is cool about Tel Aviv. Housed in a long-abandoned maternity hospital, this new kid on the block is shaking up the hospitality scene, with its local boutique design vibe. Check out the rooftop sundeck for great views of the city below. Vintage-charm combines with urban chic at Lily & Bloom (lilyandbloom.com), just off buzzing Rothschild Street – a stylish little enclave and an oasis of calm, right in the heart of the action. Budget travellers can forget everything they thought they knew about hostels at The Old Jaffa Hostel (www.telaviv-hostel.com), an affordable option conveniently located in the heart of the flea market, in a charming old building where no two rooms are the same.

Drisco Hotel / 42 / LIKE A LOCAL

Shopping therapy In keeping with Tel Aviv’s rich cultural diversity and cool modern edge, the plethora of shopping options available reflect both the city’s strong creative streak and the compellingly complementary, deep-rooted element of tradition. For starters, shopaholics absolutely cannot miss the Jaffa Flea Market (Olei Zion Street). Operating for over 100 years, the winding alleyways, covered walkways and outdoor verandas, have been revived by an injection of youthful energy in the shape of cool boutiques, pop-up bars, laid back cafés, vintage treasure troves and colourful street stalls.

While perusing the multitude of shops in the flea market, look out for Saga (www.sagatlv.com) – a collective space, where local designers and artists sell their work. Fashion-forward shoppers should check out ATA (atawear.co.il) – a sustainable local brand that has recently reopened and rebranded, with a modernised approach to functional yet stylish ‘worker’s attire’. For a highend shopping experience, head to Shabazi Street, the main thoroughfare of the historic Neve Tzedek neighbourhood, lined with designer fashion ateliers, jewellery shops and boutiques selling artisan macarons.

/ ATA

Jaffa Flea Market / © Guy Yechiely /

Cyprus Airways flies to Tel Aviv up to 12 times per week / Fabric Hotel TEL AVIV UNCOVERED / 43

TEXT BY ZOE CHRISTODOULIDES

44 / CITY TALES

10 Reasons You’ve Got to Visit Prague The epitome of fairy tale charm, Prague is European eye-candy at it’s very best. Dazzling spires pierce through the skies, chocolate-box houses beg to be photographed, the world’s largest medieval hilltop-castle beckons, and majestic bridges cross the lazy Vltava River, accentuating architectural splendour, combining the grace of Art Nouveau with astounding gothic intricacy and the outlandish exuberance of the baroque.

But dig beneath the perfectly pretty exterior and you’ll soon discover that the Czech Republic's bohemian capital isn't just about dashing good looks. Hip jazz bars lining the cobblestone streets tell tales of heady indulgences and fresh new sounds, curious markets spill onto city streets and fantastical – or downright bizarre – art beckons around every corner. And when you want to make an out of town discovery? Hop on the train to historic Česky Krùmlov for an overnight stay to remember.

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Walk across bridges to make your heart skip a beat

A smorgasbord of stunning architecture, it’s not just the grand towers that command attention in Prague. If you’re after the real quintessential Prague experience, nothing beats a walk down the Saint Charles Bridge. Named after King Charles IV, the bridge is a 15th century marvel connecting the two banks of the Vltava River, leading to the mighty UNESCO World Heritage Site of Prague Castle. And no matter what direction you look, baroque statues of saints stare right back at you.

The Art Nouveau Čechův Bridge is another marvellous site to see, with its distinctive green design, grand columns, and bronze sculptures. The Legion Bridge will delight lovers of neo-baroque and Art Nouveau, while the Palacký Bridge is an impressive example of Caisson engineering. For a taste of something more contemporary, the Troja Bridge – a bowstring arched construction – should be right up your street.

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Guzzle down some of the world’s best beer

Prague is widely regarded as the world’s beer capital and the Czechs have been famous for producing some mighty fine brews ever since the creation of the world-renowned Pilsner Urquell in 1842. Add to that globally popular beers such as Staropramen and Budvar, and you’ve got an exceptionally revered list.

While nothing beats kicking back in a traditional pub or garden where pivo flows like water, if you really want to get to grips with the new Czech brewing scene ‘revolution’, look for hole-in-the wall beer shops and funky microbreweries-cum-bars, where endless craft beers are piled high on well-stocked, floor-to-ceiling shelves.

If you’re keen on sipping new flavours and varieties, head out on an alternative Prague beer tour like ‘Bohemian Alternative Bar Tours’ (bohemianalternativebartours.com).

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Spot weird and wonderful sculptures

There aren’t many places in the world where sculptures of famous personalities hang from the skies, and you certainly won’t get the chance to see Sigmund Freud dangling mid-air anywhere else! Famed for bizarre sculptures – including the characteristic ‘Man Hanging Out’ in Prague old town (Husova Street) – rebel artist, David Černý, has certainly left his mark on the city in a rather unusual way. His giant space babies are also a site to see,

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crawling up the Zizkov TV tower, a hundred metres above Prague and exploring Kampa Park.

But it’s not just Černý who makes heads turn in the capital. Make your way to the historic Jewish quarter, and keep your eyes peeled for Jaroslav Rona’s surrealistic sculpture of Kafka on the shoulders of a giant with an empty suit, commissioned by the city’s Franz Kafka Society in 2003.

y r o t s r u o y e t Crea

BG Berlin Cyprus

@bgberlincyprus | www.bgberlin.com

â„¢ B E R L I N

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Head out on quaint escapes

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Bag market splendours

City explorations are all well and good, but when you yearn for timeout, there are few places better to take a breather than the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Česky Krùmlov. Approximately three hours from Prague by train, this old town – dominated by its 13th century castle – is well worth an overnight stay. Hands down one of the prettiest towns in the whole of Europe, some liken Česky Krùmlov to a miniature version of Prague, albeit much quieter, despite the number of tourists that descend upon the area to take in its beauty.

When your feet tire, kick back at one of the scenic riverside bars.

Want somewhere closer to the city? Stop off at the Gothic Kutna Hora, a medieval silver mining town steeped in intricate history, just an hour from Prague.

Love quirky finds? How about eccentric antiques? You’re bound to get hold of some prize goodies in Prague. You can’t miss the traditional Havel’s Market (Havelska Street) in the city centre, stocked with crafts, ceramics, wooden toys and a whole host of souvenirs.

For more unusual finds, head to Prague Flea Market (www.blesitrhy. cz) where locals rummage through second hand clothes, jewellery, old pictures and other off-the-wall artefacts. How about a market where you can also devour foodie delights? The Prague Market, known as Pražská tržnice (306/13Bubenské nábřeží), offers a great taste of local life, and has plenty of Czech and Asian restaurants to curb the hunger pangs while you browse.

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Climb marvellous towers

Prague is known as the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’ for good reason and visitors can climb any hill to take in a sublime skyline punctuated by towers. Experience the beauty of the city by looking down on all the activity from atop one of the towers themselves, as a magnificent patchwork of red-tiled roofs and bridges unfold before you. Head to the Baroque Clementium complex, home to one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, and take in the views from the Clementium Astronomical Tower, which rises over 60 metres into the skies.

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The Saint Charles Old Town Bridge Tower (regarded as one of the most impressive examples of Gothic engineering in the world) is also a mustsee and a popular spot come sunset, while the central Petrin Lookout Tower, which rises from Petrin Hill, provides fantastic views of the entire city. The Old Town Hall Tower is another popular spot, with a striking clock where the 12 apostles make an appearance every hour between 9am and 11pm. Cameras at the ready!

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Bedazzled by art & culture

There’s just something about bohemian art that holds a stunning appeal. First up on the itinerary should be the grand and imposing National Museum (www.nm.cz/en), with some 14 million items on display whisking you back through the centuries. The Kafka Museum (www.kafkamuseum.cz), also tops the list, dedicated to the most famous of all Czech writers, born and raised in Prague. Behold yet another David Černý sculpture outside the building, before heading indoors to spot old letters, photos and manuscripts, along with the writer’s personal belongings.

Love all things modern? You’ll be stunned at the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art (www.dox.cz/en), with its award-winning exterior – a brilliantly reconstructed old factory – and an equally impressive interior, brimming with modern art and alternating exhibitions by contemporary international and Czech artists, bringing together a whole range of mixed media and cool disciplines.

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Sip on a coffee in historic style

Modern coffee shops are all well and good, but how about pulling up a seat and tucking into your apple strudel or marlenka (honey cake) in a gem of a place once frequented by the likes of Einstein and Kafka? Head to the Café Louvre (22 Narodni Street) and you’ll be reliving the glory days in one of Prague’s grand cafés dating back to 1902, with pastel colours and décor whisking you back in time.

The Grand Orient Café (www.grandcafeorient.cz/en) is another spot elegantly restored to its former glory – the only Cubist café in the world, located in the House of the Black Madonna and designed by Czech architect, Josef Gočár.

Want to sip on your coffee under the light of sparkling Art Nouveau chandeliers? Head to the Kavárna Obecní dům on the ground floor of the Municipal House (www.kavarnaod.cz), which first opened its doors in 1912, and enjoy some of the most unique speciality coffees in town at one of the grandest spots imaginable.

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9−

Stroll through dreamy parks

With a whopping 200 parks in Prague, you won’t need to walk far before stepping into lush green territory. Live it up in Letná Park in the spring and summer months, where live music and various artistic activities breathe new life into this handsome haven, best known as a local meeting spot for, what else, beer!

Prefer a glass of wine? The Havlíčkovy sady pavilion stocks vino made in the park’s vineyard. Fancy a cycling adventure? The vast Stromovka is lined with bike paths! Or how about stunning

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views? Vysehrad Park offers a city panorama with a touch of real oldeworlde charm.

If beautifully landscaped gardens leave you wide eyed, then be sure to step into the Vrtba Garden. Opposite St Nicholas Church, the garden’s numerous terraces, with their geometrically shaped hedges, are every gardener’s dream. Famous works by Czech sculptor, Matthias Braun, and painter, Vaclav Vavrinec Reiner, further add to the charm.

Enjoy music to your ears

No matter what your musical style, there are plenty of hot spots around town to keep you on your toes. And if jazz and blues make your spine tingle, head to the Reduta Jazz Club (redutajazzclub.cz), Europe’s oldest jazz joint and undoubtedly one the most famous in the city, with international and local performances to write home about, and a real suave classic interior to boot. Wind through the maze of the old town and step down into another jazzy gem of a place; a dimly lit cellar by the name of Blues Sklep, translating to Blues Basement (10 Liliová).

If you want to groove the night away in a seriously cool Art Deco building, Palác Akropolis (www.palacakropolis.cz) is the place to be. A bright multicoloured façade will lure you indoors into a space housing a club, bar and theatre. For real alternative vibes, the industrial MeetFactory (www.meetfactory.cz) is the real deal – an art gallery and theatre by day, transforming into a wild music venue by night.

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Cyprus Airways flies to Prague twice a week

A Room to Remember _in _ _ _Thessaloniki ___________ With its famous 16th century White Tower looking out to glistening blue seas and a serene waterfront packed with bars and cafés, Greece’s second largest city reverberates with life. And past remnants add to the charm of this modern cosmopolitan metropolis, with a stormy and colourful history dating back to 315B.C. Thessaloniki is home to some of the finest restaurants in Greece and revered for its burgeoning gastronomy scene, ensuring your taste buds will be delighted every step of the way in this foodie paradise. Meanwhile, cultural and historic attractions dazzle the senses, buzzing cafés spill onto pavements, and museums tell vibrant tales of a multi-cultural and dynamic town.

With Thessaloniki begging to be explored on foot, let your head hit the pillow in fabulous boutique style, in the heart of the city at Blue Bottle Hotel, right on one of the city’s most important sites - Aristotelous Square.

Designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard in 1918, the square came into being in the aftermath of the Great Fire of 1917, which destroyed huge chunks of the city.

Dedicated to the whims of the contemporary traveller, every inch of Blue Bottle Hotel oozes hip style, with industrial and minimalist flair. Rooms are colourful, with playful patterns and funky wall art adding to the charm, while super comfy Coco Mat beds ensure you’ll get a good night’s sleep before the next day’s adventures begin.

Cosy up for the night in the Deluxe Double Room with its own balcony and enjoy 27sq.m. of elegant design complete with luxurious amenities, high tech facilities and comfy features making the stay as dreamy as possible.

Wake up bright and early to tuck into homemade delicacies guaranteed to start your morning on the right foot!

Blue Bottle Hotel / Thessaloniki, Greece / Tel: +30 2310520090 / www.bluebottlehotel.gr 52 / PERFECT STAYS

Cyprus Airways flies to Thessaloniki up to four times per week

TEXT BY ALEXANDER DAVIDIAN

54 / CYPRUS TALENTS

Shaping Cyprus’ Design Scene Having unveiled their most recent work, the ‘Worship Container’ installation at Larnaca’s inaugural Biennale, ΦΧΨ Heritage Design – comprised of curator Yianna Tsolaki, alongside designers Constantinos Economides and Marios Charalambous – exemplify the talent and international reach of Cyprus’ blossoming design scene as they attract world-renown.

Designers of every discipline are akin to modern-day magicians. For them, the possibilities to reinvent, meld and transform – particularly in an era of rapidly-evolving tech tools – are limitless. And when they meet kindred spirits whose gifts include conceiving and weaving the story around the objects created, a kind of perfect alchemy takes over.

between man and his spiritual heritage,” says Tsolaki. The sanctuaries that inspired the work are Larnaca’s Orthodox, Apostolic and Catholic churches of Saint Lazarus, Sourp Stephanos, Saint Mary of Graces and Saint Joseph’s, as well as the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque.

So it proved for ΦΧΨ Heritage Design, a Cypriot design team formed by curator Yianna Tsolaki, and, respectively, industrial and interior designers Constantinos Economides and Marios Charalambous. ΦΧΨ’s latest work is the stunning ‘Worship Container’ installation, among the 114 proposals chosen to be showcased at Larnaca’s inaugural Biennale in the autumn of 2018, and picked from over 300 projects submitted by design teams from 37 countries.

Constructed out of medium density board, steel tubes and Corian, ΦΧΨ’s ‘Workship Container’ has echoes of a ship, as if its clean lines were poised to slice through the waves while ‘bearing’ an interfaith ‘cargo’ – in keeping with the Biennale’s ‘Container-Content’ theme. “But creating a ‘ship’ wasn't the immediate intention at the start of the project – the entire creative process suggested and eventually led to the ship form, somehow carrying and 'containing' the blend of Cyprus' religious traditions,” elaborates Economides.

“Our proposal focused on the topography of five monumental religious buildings in Larnaca, enabling the audience to experience a visual connection

Responsible for the narrative of ‘Workshop Container’, curator Tsolaki (veteran agent and product manager to an array of international

SHAPING CYPRUS’ DESIGN SCENE / 55

designers via her Cherry Concepts and Spaces brand) also showcased Economides and Charalambous’ work at Hamburg’s PAPENHUDER 57 Gallery. She had also called upon the two young Cypriot creatives in 2014 and 2015, to produce specific items with a Cyprus context under the Glue Nicosia project – an initiative bidding to ‘glue’ back the world’s last divided capital by re-engaging with its beauty via design.

“The diverse identity of Nicosia, both as a divided city with a buffer zone running through it, but also, as a culturally and historically rich city makes it fascinating for all involved,” Tsolaki has said of Glue Nicosia. Under her curation, three concepts emerged through which Economides and Charalambous were to express themselves: The Green Line Lamp & Table, The DOTing series and the Peep Line series.

Under the DOTing line – linking an excessive fondness or love of craftsmanship to the dynamic simplicity of a circle – a mirror designed

by Economides was nominated in 2018 for a prestigious German Design award in the Excellent Product Design category. Charalambous created companion hangers and a lamp under the same line.

The Green Line and Peep Line series, meanwhile, display the more obviously local slant of the trio’s Glue Nicosia collaboration. These include objects 56 / CYPRUS TALENTS

such as Economides’ ‘Nicosia Map Bowl’, with the cylindrical container’s lid depicting the namesake city’s occupied northern topography as blank, and Charalambous’ ‘Peephole Wall Lamp’, riffing on the gaps or cracks in the derelict buildings along the city’s buffer zone, through which passers-by glimpse the no man’s land beyond.

From national history to the personal: Economides and Charalambous additionally collaborated while they were both members of Draw Collective, formed in 2012, whose core also included interior designer, Marina Sofroniou, and graphic designer, Omiros Panayides. As part of Draw Collective, Economides, Charalambous and Sofroniou were commissioned by the Cyprus Theatre Organisation, THOC, to create a bar installation that won a 2018 German Design prize in the Retail Architecture category.

“We loved its simplicity, and the fact that, when you see it from different perspectives...it visually shifts and changes,” Charalambous had said of the installation. The 7m-long oakwood bar features identical wooden slats, with their narrower sides painted a light blue – a style element repeated 95 times and rotated 360° along the façade, so that the narrower sides disappear when viewed at 90° and 270°.

© Paschalis Panteli

Draw Collective’s multi-disciplinary ‘WECY Souvenir Project’ had also been well-received, debuting at the December 2013 Pop-Up Festival, a cultural response to the desolation of Nicosia’s once-vibrant Makarios Avenue.

"We wanted to redesign traditional Cypriot souvenirs – to show Cypriots we could move beyond the kitsch. Each item had a new story behind it, a new concept, a new identity," Charalambous had said.

© Silvio Rusmigo

© Silvio Rusmigo

Today, having begun a new chapter with Tsolaki, the ΦΧΨ team are equally focused on updating the aesthetic perspective of aspects of Cypriot heritage. And thanks to the innovative work that they and their compatriot creatives are bringing to local and international audiences, the island’s design scene is coming into its own.

While it may take longer for the influence of celebrity Cypriot designer, Michael Anastassiades, to trickle down, and evolving consumer tastes to take effect, perhaps the ultimate key to the island’s design appreciation lies in in its earliest beginnings. “We may not have the design tradition of places like Italy, the UK and Scandinavia,” argues Economides, “but remember that we DID have designs in the everyday objects of our ancient past. “Reinventing these could be part of Cyprus’ design future.”

SHAPING CYPRUS’ DESIGN SCENE / 57

Beirut

/ The heartbeat city /

Why go?

East meets West in dazzling fashion, as mosques befriend cathedrals and modern architecture strikes up an intriguing love affair with tottering old buildings. It’s chaotic but vibrant, irresistibly wild at heart, and simultaneously shrouded in an almost palpable veil of extravagance and glamour.

Wounded throughout history, its troubled past has been washed away by a remarkable spirit that outrightly rejects the meaning of surrender.

Beirut is the city of reinvention, the city you can literally feel pulsate as you transverse its traffic-riddled streets that defy rules and regulations. Hosting some of the best parties in the world, this is where you’ll dance like you’ve never danced before, drink like there’s no tomorrow, puff away at those shishas at any minute of any day, and dive right into the ritual of devouring food as if it’s the last supper (or last bowl of hummus) you’ll ever see!

And it’s hardly surprising that Lebanon’s capital city was once revered as ‘the Paris of the East’, with picture-perfect French colonial buildings in the Beirut Souks providing the ultimate elegant playground for meticulously dressed, well-heeled fashionistas who gracefully strut their sky-high stilettos through its streets; each clutching a more extravagant designer handbag than the next.

Wander the streets of Saifi Village in the heart of downtown Beirut and visit the design studios that beckon the trendsetters, while hipsters grab their favourite artisanal coffee.

58 / ON THE BUCKET LIST - BEIRUT

A little further afield, the hilly Ashrafieh is every explorer’s paradise, with tree lined streets home to traditional French and Ottoman residential properties that sit beside shops, offices, lunch bars and more. Itching for more history? Witness it come to life at the National Museum of Beirut (Museum Street), housing one of the most extensive archaeological collections in the Middle East.

Must visit You haven’t experienced Lebanon if you haven’t devoured the phenomenal food. And on Wednesdays and Saturdays, there’s no better place to be than the Souk El Tayeb (www.soukeltayeb.com), the country’s first open air farmer’s market. Hosting around 100 small producers from around the country, you can tuck into fresh produce, while purchasing handmade crafts; be it pottery, straw baskets or lush soaps – you name it, you’ll find it.

Don’t leave without Taking a seaside stroll in the Corniche – a coastal promenade lined with palm trees and packed with locals from all walks of life, from friendly fishermen to feisty families and sleek urbanites pulling up in their flashy sports cars.

© Nadim Kamel

Take a selfie @ One of the many colourful painted stairways in the artsy Mar Mikhael district. Pose for a photo before putting your best foot forward to explore this hip and happening neighbourhood forming an extension of Gemmayzeh and its offbeat charm. Speckled with historic buildings and hole-in the-wall shops, it’s the trendy bars, chic cafés, impressive lounges and fashionable restaurants that are all the rage today.

Cyprus Airways flies to Beirut up to 13 times per week

TEXT BY ELENI PHILIPPOU

Visit the Village

Blissfully serene landscapes, food that provokes the taste buds, cobbled lanes so silent you can hear a pin prick, and striking stone buildings that defy the hands of time: Cypriot villages are where authentic local life reigns supreme.

Simply follow winding country roads to discover six of the island’s most stunning rural communities.

60 / AUTHENTIC CYPRUS

VISIT THE VILLAGE / 61

Lefkara: Lace, silver & folk tales Ask a local about the best of the island’s villages, and Lefkara is sure to top the list. An easy drive from Nicosia, Larnaca and Limassol, this quaint stonebuilt area makes for the perfect road trip if you don’t want to veer too far from the city, but are still itching to discover more about the island’s past.

Lefkara is best explored on foot; discover old architecture in the cobbled alleys, engage with friendly locals who’ll welcome you into their shops, and kick back at traditional taverns for a homemade taste of Cyprus.

With dazzling lace embroidery adorning practically every inch of the village – from building exteriors to coffee shops and countryside hotels – it’s

little wonder that local folk are so proud of their produce. The so called ‘lefkaritika’ are included on UNESCO’s Intangible World Heritage List, but intricate lace is not the only reason that locals grin from ear to ear. Their silversmithing skills are also the best on the island!

Want more history and culture? Make a beeline for the Folklore Museum (House of Patsalos, Tel: +357 24 342326), where you’ll discover more of the island’s splendours.

Must-try: ‘Ttavas’, which is the ultimate Cypriot dish originating from Lefkara. Satiate those taste buds with rice, potatoes, vegetables and lamb, slow-cooked in a casserole, and infused with cumin.

Lofou: Glorious wine land Nestled in the towering foothills of the Troodos mountains outside Limassol, Lofou is one of the most captivating stonebuilit villages on the island. And it’s also one of the island’s prime winegrowing villages: the nearby hills are blanketed in rambling vines, while winegrowing traditions and customs are still intertwined in local life.

Have your cameras at the ready when you walk through the village, with its elevated location – rising almost 800 metres above sea level – providing stunning views. Head to the Neoclassical old village school to take it all in, and you’ll be left breathless. Stop off at the olive mill (www.lofou.org/en/ olives-len) to catch a glimpse of how the prized oil was made in bygone 62 / AUTHENTIC CYPRUS

days, while the Folk-Art museum provides insight into village life in centuries past. When hunger hits, try Kamares Tavern (Tel: +357 25 470719) for sumptuous meze in a traditional, stone-wall setting.

End your day with a cup of soothing herbal tea at the quintessentially Cypriot ‘Xenis o Poyiatzis’ (Xenis the Painter) coffee shop-cum-herb shop located on Lofou’s main cobbled street, right opposite Kamares Tavern.

Top tip: While exploring, see if you can spot a vibrant street art mural portraying one of the village’s locals.

Omodos: A taste of local produce

Another bucolic winegrowing village, Omodos is a popular rural destination, but don’t let the crowds put you off. Renowned for its traditional Cypriot produce of ‘zivania’ (a strong alcoholic spirit made from a mixture of grape pomace and local dry wines), ‘arkatena koulourka’ (bread rusks) and ‘kiofterka’ (jelly-like sweets made from grape juice), Omodos offers visitors a real taste of local village life. The good news is that sellers on the main street often offer bites to taste before buying.

The cobbled lanes of Omodos are also filled with traditional embroidery: the ‘pipilla’. Women of the village take great pride in their craft and it still largely remains the pride and joy of every Cypriot household in the district.

Lania: Hidden artist’s paradise

Savour local Cypriot delicacies at Stou Kir Yiannis’ tavern (15 Linou Street, Tel: 70 000100) or head down to Katoi (www.omodosevents.com) for a real twist on tradition. Wine enthusiasts will love visiting the medieval winepress, a 500-year-old wine-making machine at Ktima Gerolemo (ktimagerolemo.com).

Must-see: The Holy Cross Monastery in the village centre. One of the oldest and most famous in Cyprus, it houses what is believed to be Holy rope and wood that Jesus was crucified on, brought to Cyprus by Saint Helen.

Don’t let the quiet façade fool you, Lania hides countless treasures and is often celebrated as one of most picturesque villages on the island.

production methods. And while you’re traversing the village centre, stand back to admire the 800-year-old oak tree.

While the village homes are humble in appearance, foreigners and locals alike have colourfully transformed Lania with lush vegetation and wall mosaics. With relocated creatives having opened up art studios in this secluded spot of the Limassol winegrowing district, you can pop into studios and get hold of local art to take back home.

Be sure to trace Lania’s history through a permanent black and white photography exhibition which adorns the village walls. And if you happen to visit Lania in May, you’ll love the ‘Lanes and Courtyards of Lania’ festival (Tel: +357 25 432333 for exact dates closer to the time), where the friendly women of the village open their stunning courtyards to visitors.

Peruse the area and you’ll come across the Old Olive Press, the Shoemaker’s Museum and the Commandaria Storage Museum. As a grape-cultivating village, the Old Wine Press also beckons, providing a glimpse of local wine

Best eat: Tuck into simple yet tasty Cypriot cuisine at Platanos tavern (Tel: +357 25 434273), just as you enter the village. You can't miss it!

64 / AUTHENTIC CYPRUS

Fikardou: Deep into times past

You won’t need long to walk through the tiny village of Fikardou; a few hours may be enough to discover all the nooks and crannies. But each and every corner is worth it, with this tiny place deep in the Pitsilia countryside having won the Europa Nostra Award for cultural heritage in 1987 and declared an ancient monument.

Practically abandoned, just a handful of inhabitants remain in the village today, only re-attracting visitors after a hit Cypriot TV series was filmed in the area, showcasing the old, red-tiled-rooves which characterise the village homes that cradle the rickety cobbled lanes.

Yiannakos Tavern (Tel: +357 22 633311) welcomes visitors upon arrival, known for its local food and quirky decor. Look out for the dried, carved butternut

squash hung on its walls, which you’ll also spot around the village’s gardens.

Two houses have been turned into the Local Rural Museum (Tel: +357 22 634731) which beckons curious visitors. The House of Katsinioros – which was named after its last owner – is a two-storey stone-built manor house with a steep-pitched wooden roof and many 16th century architectural features, showcasing old tools, agricultural mechanisms and more, while the second, that of Achilleas Dimitri, gives visitors a glimpse of a weaver’s workshop and scholar’s guest house.

Best sleep: For some great countryside shut eye, spend the night at the Magic Hour – Traditional House (listed on Airbnb) and experience how locals used to live in this cosy and quirky stone-built place.

Kakopetria: Up to higher heights One of the most visited villages on the island, the Solea Valley village of Kakopetria lures explorers making their way up to Mount Olympus all year round, famed for its cool climate in the summer, and cosy charm in the winter.

In the heart of Kakopetria, you’ll quickly be drawn to the central burbling River Klarios, and if you’re looking to get those legs moving, venture out on a short 1km hike on the Vateri Nature Trail along the river, engulfed by tall sycamore trees. Feeling thirsty? Fill your bottles with mountain water from the fountain at the end of the trail.

wood houses, then head on to explore the church of Ayios Nikolaos tis Stegis, one of the ten painted churches of the Troodos region, that enjoys UNESCO’s World Heritage status. Its simple 11th century stone façade stands in complete antithesis to the embellished interior, with rich murals paying heritage to the island’s vibrant Byzantine past.

Must-try: Be sure to tuck into the delicious spoon sweets (bite sized fruit and vegetables preserved in syrup) sold by the women of the village outside their doors.

Recharge your batteries with a sip of Cypriot coffee at Serenity (Tel: +357 22 922602) in the old part of the village with traditional old stone and

VISIT THE VILLAGE / 65

TEXT BY ALIX NORMAN

A Marriage Made in Heaven

On an island made for love, there’s an ‘I do’ setting round every corner. With its vine-clad boutique wineries, elegant seaside backdrops, and idyllic forest groves, Cyprus is the couples’ capital of the Mediterranean: the perfect place for your special day.

66 / WEDDING BLISS

Happily ever after begins with ‘I do’. But, on an island that’s so rich in romantic scenery, how do you choose where those all-important vows should take place?

Here in Cyprus, destination weddings are a year-round occurrence, thanks to the practically permanent sunshine. Over 8000 civil weddings take place each year, a number increasing by five per cent annually, according to Maria Socratous of the Cyprus Tourism Organisation (CTO). But before you rush to book your wedding, pick your flowers, and finalise your guest list, you’ll need to decide just where to walk down the aisle...and, on this island, you’re spoilt for choice!

A MARRIAGE MADE IN HEAVEN / 67

Winery Weddings Ktima Dafermou, Lefkara Steeped in history, Lefkara is the birthplace of the world-renowned Cypriot lace. But it’s also – thanks to the surrounding vineyards – the home of one of the island’s most spectacular boutique wineries. Known as Ktima Dafermou, the winery is divinely located. With sweeping views down the valley, and premises which join old world craft and modern aesthetics, the site delivers a richly romantic setting for your wedding.

Surrounded by ivy-swathed walks and lush gardens, the outdoor venue can host 550 guests and is open from April to mid-October, while the winery itself – complete with high-vaulted ceilings and minimalist architecture – accommodates 350 guests, and is open year-round. © Alexandros Djema

Tel: +357 7000 8373 / www.dafermouwinery.com

Ktima Christoudia, Kato Drys Set atop a sunlit hill between the ancient villages of Kato Drys and Vavla, Ktima Christoudia captures the very essence of the Mediterranean way of life. Here, the winery’s owners were themselves married: the first chapter in an ongoing love story which has since seen many a happy couple tie the knot. Open all year round, this uniquely beautiful venue consists of a spacious hall which holds up to 100 guests, while 300 can be accommodated in a summer ceremony on the flowered lawns. Catering is on-site, and the charming owners work closely with event planners to provide all the elements of a perfect day.

Tel: +357 99 034828 / ktimachristoudia.com

Hadjiantonas Winery, Parekklisia Landscaped gardens and peaceful olive groves encircle this striking white stone winery in the charming village of Parekklisia. Known island-wide for its extensive wine cellar and exquisite vintages, the award-winning Hadjiantonas Winery is also a popular choice of wedding venue, emphasising personal service and a rich attention to detail in its bid to delight the intended. An ideal ‘I do’ location which can accommodate up to 1000 guests, the venue is available from April to October depending on the weather, with specialist event organisers standing by to cater to your every wedding whim.

Tel: +357 25 991199 / hadjiantonas.com.cy/weddings

68 / WEDDING BLISS

Coastal Ceremonies The Cupule, Ayia Napa Poised on a hilltop, and bordered on three sides by the Mediterranean, The Cupule is an exquisite, purpose-built wedding venue operating between the months of April and October. Despite its proximity to the major party towns, the site is serenity itself: overlooking the glassclear waters of Cape Greco, the premises fall into a designated area of natural beauty; a quiet countryside haven crossed with nature trails and dotted with viewpoints. With its breathtaking vistas and comprehensive wedding services, this open-air venue can host up to 1000 guests for cocktails and caters to everything from large-scale banquets (seating 450) to intimate gatherings.

Tel: +357 99 437770 / www.thecupule.com

Paphos Mediaeval Castle For that everlasting commitment, what better location than a place which has stood the test of time? Wrapped in history, the Paphos Mediaeval Castle was originally constructed by the Lusignan dynasty in the 13th century; for a love that will last, there’s simply no better spot! While weddings no longer take place within the castle, the gloriously timeworn stone fort makes for a magnificent backdrop to your civil ceremony, and harbourside restaurants such as Poseidonas and Moorings offer a range of catering and reception services. Watch the sun set over the waves as you celebrate your new beginning!

Tel: +357 26 822270 / www.pafos.org.cy

Elias Beach Hotel pier, Limassol Stretching along the coast for 10km, Limassol is a sea town through and through. And you can’t get any closer to wedding atop the waves than at the Elias Beach Hotel. A formal banqueting hall for an elegant indoor setting and a professional wedding team overseeing every detail ensure your wedding will be an event to remember. But it’s the Sunset Pier that’s lends the real romance to your occasion: here, you can hold both your ceremony and reception, and follow up with a sumptuous sit-down dinner for up to 300 guests at the Blue Paradise... making for a Mediterranean memory to last a lifetime.

Tel: +357 25 636000 / www.kanikahotels.com/elias-beach-hotel-limassol

A MARRIAGE MADE IN HEAVEN / 69

Forest Festivities Lexeko Estate, Lythrodontas An enchanted garden ringed by silvered olive trees, the Lexeko Estate in the village of Lythrodontas is a specialised wedding venue designed to cater to your every need. The thousand-acre estate has been meticulously remodelled to provide fantastic facilities, including a rustic lounge area, manicured lawns, and a tranquil lake – complete with swans! Swathes of white linen, strings of fairy lights, and crystal chandeliers make this the perfect setting for your country chic wedding. The all-year-round venue can cater to over 1000 guests, delivering everything from fine dining to the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos.

Tel: +357 94 268826 / lexekoestate.com

HoneyLi Hill, Melini Set in the wooded foothills of the Troodos mountains in the beautiful village of Melini (on the borders of both Larnaca and Limassol districts), HoneyLi Hill is about as dreamy as it gets when the sun goes down over the undulating countryside. Say ‘I do’ from spectacular heights before sitting down for a sumptuous al fresco dinner in an outdoor space accommodating 300 guests and an indoor space seating 180. Newlyweds can even cosy up for the night in style in a special suite on the grounds, while the managers of the venue can help with wedding coordination, decoration and dining. And when your feet tire, a mini bus is at hand for transportation within the lush grounds. If you do, per chance, want a religious wedding, there’s also a gorgeous on-site chapel.

Tel: +357 99 278454 / www.honeylihill.com

Minthis Resort, Paphos Cocooned by the greenery of Tsada, deep in the Paphos countryside, this magical choice for a destination wedding sees couples indulge in Champagne toasts surrounded by rolling hills. Add to that the endless green of a magnificent golf course, surrounded by vineyards and orchards where almond and walnut trees abound, and you’re set for a day and night to remember. Whether you’re after a lavish affair or something simple, Minthis Resort offers top-grade service and an array of ceremony options; exchange your vows on a grassy lawn overlooking the 18-hole championship golf course, or say ‘I do’ in the historic courtyard of the Byzantine monastery, for a ceremony dappled in Mediterranean sunlight. Sit down for dinner on the lawn (accommodating 180) under the moonlight, or head indoors for a chic candlelit affair in the modern and luxurious clubhouse, which seats 160.

Tel: +357 26 842222 / www.minthisresort.com 70 / WEDDING BLISS

Handy Hints!

We’ve answered the where. But what about the rest?

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your perfect destination wedding.

Who? Wedding planners abound on the island of love! But choosing the right one can be a challenge. If you don’t have a personal recommendation to hand, ask your hotel who they work with, or check out www.myguidecyprus.com/weddings/wedding-planners.

What?

Marriages in Cyprus are internationally recognised and legally binding. Paperwork includes passports, birth certificates, and a Certificate of Freedom to Marry (for a full list of documentation, visit the Civil Registry section of www.moi.gov.cy). Bear in mind you should be staying in Cyprus for a minimum of three working days prior to the wedding.

When?

Book in advance. A long way in advance! There are a finite number of official locations to choose from, and no weddings are held at the weekend (though, according to the CTO, municipalities can choose to waive both these factors). Add to that the laidback Mediterranean approach to life, and your best bet is often hiring a wedding planner to smooth your path to wedded bliss. Check out www.bookyourweddingday. com to instantly book your wedding day online!

How? As stipulated by the CTO, the only officials who can officially marry you are local dignitaries (think mayors, registrars, and the like). You need to be in close contact with the relevant municipality for much of your planning process, booking the right person to perform the marriage at the same time as checking the legality of your chosen spot.

Useful contact numbers Weddings in Nicosia Tel: +357 22 797238 Email: civilmarriages@nicosiamunicipality.org.cy

Weddings in Ayia Napa Tel: +357 23 816300 Email: weddings@agianapa.org.cy

Weddings in Paphos Tel: +357 26 822353 / +357 26 833350 Email: civil.marriages@pafos.org.cy

Weddings in Limassol Tel: +357 25 884 345 / +357 25 884354 Email: civilweddings@limassolmunicipal.com.cy

Weddings in Larnaca Tel: +357 24 816564 Email: civilmarriage@larnaka.com Or for the Aradippou Municipality Email: municipality@aradippou.org.cy

A MARRIAGE MADE IN HEAVEN / 71

Bags of Style Any jetsetter will tell you that the right travel bag can make or break a trip. We scoured the market to find the ultimate carry-on travel bags and the perfect arm candy to take your travels to new, more stylish heights, as you embark on 2019 adventures. From trendy holdalls, to sleek suitcases that glide along with you every step of the way, never has cabin luggage been so appealing!

A manly affair Herschel Novel Duffel

Collapsible design Paravel Stowaway

Flying fun Eastpak Tranverz S

It’s little wonder that Paravel's 'Stowaway' has become a cult accessory, with its ingenious twist on a classic suitcase. Totally collapsible, the bag can be tucked inside your bigger suitcase, and then used as a carry-on for the extra bits and pieces you collect on your travels! Made from the label's signature waterproof canvas and tan leather, it's playfully adorned with an 'Out of Office' motif. It also features a removable shoulder strap, Italian leather top handle and two-way lockable zipper.

You’ll have a fun-filled holiday anywhere you go with this Hawaiian-inspired, leafy print, carry-on suitcase. Not keen on the pattern? There are loads more prints and colours to choose from in the Eastpak ‘Tranverz S’ range.

The easy wheel system and telescopic handle guarantee hassle free travels, while you can adjust the bag to more or less volume, depending on what you pack, using the handy compression straps. Did we mention that it’s also water-resistant and comes with a ten-year warranty?

Retro cool BG Berlin ‘Old School’ – Urbe Collection

The ultimate splurge Bellagio Carry-On Spinner Trunk

Make a real statement when you travel with this playful BG Berlin ‘Old School’ carry-on. Fun and bold, the colourful, retro-inspired design by Christin Weller is perfect for the intrepid and adventurous traveller. Not just about a daring look, this sturdy but light suitcase is made from the highest quality materials, with four directional, smooth and silent Easy Hope patented wheels for smooth gliding. Worried about the safety of the items you’ve packed? The suitcase features a TSA approved combination look and YKK zippers for better security.

If you can’t bear the thought of travelling to foreign lands without numerous outfit combos, but don’t want to check in your luggage, then you’ll no doubt be looking for something light, with plenty of space on the inside. And voilà, the Ballagio Carry-On Spinner Trunk offers a flawless combination of style and function. Now made with enlarged Hinomoto wheels, improved handle comfort and a matching interior lining for a seamless appearance, it’s every traveller’s dream. We love the interior pockets – perfect for storing those little accessories!

72 / RETAIL THERAPY

Who said that men’s travel bags can’t be practical and stylish at the same time? Board the plane with a Herschel Novel Duffel and you’ll be cooler than ever; ideal for a fun weekend getaway and offering plenty of storage, it even includes a convenient shoe compartment. The bag is available in a whole range of colours and patterns. We particularly love the geometric print on this one!

BG Berlin ‘Old School’ / Urbe Collection

/ Bellagio Carry-On Spinner Trunk

/ Eastpak Tranverz S

Herschel Novel Duffel /

/ Paravel Stowaway

BAGS OF STYLE / 73

Cyprus Airways Routes Cyprus Airways summer flights

ZURICH

Cyprus Airways also offers a variety of additional international routes via codeshare agreements with S7 and Blue Air.

PRAGUE KOÅ ICE BRATISLAVA

THESSALONIKI SKIATHOS ATHENS

RHODES HERAKLION

LARNACA BEIRUT TEL AVIV

Our Destinations at a Glance / January – September 2019

Athens, Greece Up to seven times per week

Tel Aviv, Israel Up to 12 times per week

Beirut, Lebanon Up to 13 times per week

Prague, Czech Republic Twice a week

76 / CYPRUS AIRWAYS DESTINATIONS

Thessaloniki, Greece Up to four times per week

Greek Islands (Heraklion, Rhodes, Skiathos) Twice a week

Zurich, Switzerland Twice a week

Bratislava, Slovakia Twice a week

KoŠice, Slovakia Once a week

JANUARY – SEPTEMBER 2019 / 77

EVERY

HAS

ITS MOMENT!